“Sidewalk Specials Brings Lifesaving Pet Care to South African Townships.
We walked through an informal settlement called Hassie Square, where a severely malnourished puppy caught Rachael’s eye. Her ribs were clearly visible, and nearby residents said the dog had no owner.
Rachael named her Duckie and ensured she received the care she needed. Duckie is now safe and one step closer to her forever home. She is about 7 years old, has diabetes, and has impaired eyesight. One of many animals whose lives have changed through this hands-on approach.
In South Africa’s informal settlements, millions of pets live alongside families who often lack access to basic veterinary services. @sidewalkspecials, a Cape Town-based animal welfare organisation, is working to change that.
In 2022, the group launched the Sidewalk Steri Clinic in De Doorns, near Worcester. The mobile clinic provides sterilisation, vaccinations, parasite control, and pet care education directly to township communities, eliminating the need to remove animals from their homes or place them into overcrowded shelters.
To date, over 7,800 animals have been sterilised. Operating every two weeks, the clinic treats around 40 animals for routine care and manages 20 emergency cases per visit.
The organisation also shares free resources to help other NGOs replicate their township-based model. (found here: https://sidewalkspecials.org/steri-clinic-protocols/)
Despite its impact, the clinic faces funding and equipment shortages. Advanced cases must be outsourced to private vets, as the clinic lacks essential tools like X-ray and blood analysis machines. The goal is to expand into a full-time facility with hospital capabilities.
Generous support from partners like Mooigezicht Estates, @nexgard_sa South Africa, and @petheaven.co.za has helped the clinic keep going, but more help is needed.
Sidewalk Specials is changing the way South Africa cares for its township animals, one dog, one cat, and one community at a time.
To support Sidewalk Specials work, use any donation option below:
Donations are tax-deductible under Section 18A.“
Author: @thehumansnarrative, Photographer: Armand Hough / Independent Newspapers
